Volunteer firefighters and ground search and rescue teams who assisted during the unprecedented wildfires in Newfoundland and Labrador will be given a one-time payment of $500. Premier John Hogan confirmed the province’s commitment to compensate those who responded to the wildfires in Conception Bay North, Paddy’s Pond, Holyrood, and Martin Lake.
The Kingston wildfire raged uncontrollably across Conception Bay North for most of August, covering over 10,000 hectares. Premier Hogan acknowledged the intense challenges faced during this year’s wildfire season, emphasizing the selfless dedication of volunteer firefighters and search and rescue teams who prioritized community safety over personal obligations.
Chief Roger Gillingham of the North Shore volunteer fire department highlighted that some firefighters sacrificed work hours and wages to combat the blaze. In recognition of their efforts, the province will also grant a one-time honorarium of $10,000 to local fire departments and search and rescue teams that participated in the wildfire response.
Additionally, the province had previously announced a $100,000 allocation for purchasing new wildland coveralls for volunteer fire departments affected by the wildfires. The funding aims to support equipment replacement, such as hoses and nozzles, that were damaged or destroyed during the fires.
Apart from individual compensations, the province will allocate $1,000 to towns and local service districts for managing the honorariums, while $5,000 will be directed to the Newfoundland and Labrador Search and Rescue Association to assist in distributing funds to ground search and rescue crews. The Town of Small Point-Broad Cove-Blackhead-Adam’s Cove will receive a $30,000 Special Assistance Grant to aid in wildfire restoration efforts, totaling $60,000 in support to the town.
The community of Small Point-Broad Cove-Blackhead-Adam’s Cove suffered significant losses due to wildfires this year, with approximately 200 structures destroyed by the Kingston fire in August and 12 homes burnt in the Adam’s Cove wildfire in May. Minister of Municipal Affairs and Community Engagement Paul Pike affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the town in its recovery endeavors.
The government pledged solidarity with the affected communities, recognizing the arduous process of rebuilding and recuperating from the devastating wildfires.
